GCSU signs pharmacology program agreement with Mercer University

Mercer University and Georgia College & State University representatives at MOU signing

GCSU signs pharmacology program agreement with Mercer University

Georgia College & State University and the Mercer University College of Pharmacy are partnering for a healthier Georgia.

May 10, President Cathy Cox and Mercer University President William D. Underwood signed an agreement for Georgia College pre-pharmacy graduates to receive priority applicant status to Mercer’s Doctor of Pharmacy program.

“A significant number of our students have expressed an interest in pursuing a Doctor of Pharmacy,” said Dr. Sayo Fakayode, chair of the Department of Chemistry, Physics and Astronomy at Georgia College.“Many of our students are from the Atlanta area, so Mercer University’s Pharmacy School is close to them. It’s a win-win situation.” 

After three years of pre-pharmacy study at Georgia College, students will have priority applicant status—or a guaranteed interview—at Mercer University’s College of Pharmacy. The first year of pharmacy school will count as students’ bachelor’s degree fourth year in chemistry, and toward their first year for Doctor of Pharmacy.

In their undergraduate work, Georgia College’s chemistry students will prepare to meet entry requirements into Mercer’s program.

“We’ll get students at the end of mentoring relationships they had at GCSU,” said Dr. Brian Crabtree, dean of Mercer’s College of Pharmacy. “Students will have an opportunity to interact with us through mentorship, shadowing and advising, so they have a better sense of the opportunities that are available to them.”

He looks forward to a continued association with Georgia College, as many GCSU alumni have excelled in Mercer’s PharmD program.

“I think it's important for us to keep this relationship front and center at all times,” Crabtree said. “This arrangement will increase the opportunities available for young people to get a high-quality educational experience. It's great to be leading students and the communities they will serve where they will change lives.”

Pictured from left to right are Dr. Sayo Fakayode, Dr. Brian Crabtree (Mercer), William D. Underwood (Mercer), Cathy Cox, J.D., Dr. Scott Davis (Mercer), Dr. Costas Spirou and Dr. Winston Tripp.

Updated: 2023-11-30
Margaret Brown1
margaret.brown1@gcsu.edu
478 445-5579